If you are craving the comforting, nostalgic flavors of a classic Sloppy Joe but want to elevate it into a hearty, one-dish meal, this Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe is destined to become your new go-to. Combining the rich, savory goodness of ground beef simmered in a tangy, sweet, and slightly smoky sauce with a fluffy, golden cornbread topping, this casserole brings out the best of both worlds. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want something warm, satisfying, and downright delicious without fuss. Trust me, once you try this Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe, it will quickly find a forever spot in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a vital role—ground chuck brings meaty richness, while fresh onions and green bell peppers add subtle sweetness and texture. The combination of tomato paste, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce creates a luscious, flavorful sauce that carries all those classic Sloppy Joe vibes. Finally, the cornbread topping isn’t just for texture; it adds a delightful golden crust and a hint of buttery sweetness that balances the savory filling perfectly.
- Cooking spray: To ensure your casserole dish is perfectly greased for easy serving and cleanup.
- 2 pounds ground chuck: Choose fresh, good-quality beef for a juicy, flavorful base.
- 2 cups finely chopped yellow onion: Adds a mellow sweetness and soft texture after sautéing.
- 1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper: Offers a nice, fresh crunch and bright color.
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste: This intensifies the tomato flavor and deepens the sauce’s richness.
- 2 cups beef broth: Builds the sauce’s body and keeps it silky and smooth.
- 1½ cups ketchup: Brings that classic tangy sweetness fundamental to Sloppy Joe flavors.
- 3 tablespoons yellow mustard: Adds a gentle kick and subtle acidity for balance.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Delivers savory depth with umami goodness.
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar: Sweetens the sauce naturally and enhances caramel notes.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a warm, aromatic touch without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Brings subtle heat and sharpness.
- 2 (8.5-ounce) packages corn muffin mix (such as Jiffy): Convenience meets classic cornbread flavor and texture.
- â…” cup whole milk: Ensures the cornbread topping is moist and tender.
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder: Gives a light rise for a fluffy cornbread crust.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the cornbread batter together, adding richness.
How to Make Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make serving a breeze.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Chuck and Vegetables
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground chuck. Using a wooden spoon, break the meat apart as it cooks until it’s almost fully browned, about 4 minutes. This technique helps your meat cook evenly and keeps it tender. Then, add the finely chopped onions and green bell peppers, cooking until they soften and their natural sweetness comes alive, around 6 to 8 minutes. This step builds the base flavors that’ll make your casserole unforgettable.
Step 3: Create the Sloppy Joe Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste and cook it while stirring constantly for about 2 minutes so it darkens slightly—this little extra cooking step enhances its flavor dramatically. Next, pour in the beef broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to loosen all those delicious browned bits, which add fantastic depth. Stir in the ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until thickened and bubbling nicely—about 7 minutes. This sauce is the heart of your Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe, packed with balanced tangy, sweet, and savory layers.
Step 4: Transfer Meat Mixture to Baking Dish
Once the sauce is perfectly thick and flavorful, pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish. This makes a cozy, saucy base that will perfectly complement the cornbread topping.
Step 5: Prepare the Cornbread Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the corn muffin mix, whole milk, baking powder, and eggs until smooth and fully combined. This batter creates a fluffy, golden crown that will soak up the flavors of the Sloppy Joe base beneath it.
Step 6: Add Cornbread Batter and Bake
Spoon the cornbread batter evenly over the meat mixture, spreading it gently for uniform coverage. Place your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Watch for that beautiful golden color on top, and check doneness by inserting a wooden pick into the center—it should come out clean. Your kitchen will smell amazing by now!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps it settle so when you scoop it out, it holds together beautifully. Then, dig in and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience with this Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe.
How to Serve Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh twist, sprinkle some finely chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top just before serving. A few dashes of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream can add extra zing and creaminess, making every bite pop.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands strong on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables balances the richness and adds vibrant color to your plate. For a classic touch, creamy coleslaw or baked beans complement the hearty flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in oven-safe ramekins for a charming presentation at dinner parties, or scoop it onto fresh hamburger buns for a delightful Sloppy Joe twist. It also works brilliantly topped with shredded cheese before baking to add a gooey layer that melts into the cornbread crust.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a convenient, delicious lunch or dinner ready to reheat.
Freezing
You can freeze the Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe before baking or after cooking once cooled. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. Frozen casseroles maintain their flavor for up to 2 months—perfect for meal prepping or saving for a busy day.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to keep the cornbread topping crisp. For quicker meals, microwave portions on medium power, though you may lose some of the golden crust’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground chuck?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes can work well. Just keep in mind that leaner meats might need a little extra moisture or fat to keep the casserole juicy.
Is it possible to make the cornbread topping from scratch without a mix?
Definitely! You can use your favorite cornbread recipe by adjusting quantities to cover the meat mixture evenly. Just make sure to keep it a bit batter-like so it spreads nicely.
Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Yes, adding shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese either mixed into the cornbread batter or sprinkled on top before baking makes the casserole even more indulgent and flavorful.
What can I do if I want this recipe spicier?
Incorporate diced jalapeños with the peppers or add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the Sloppy Joe sauce. It’s a great way to customize heat to your taste.
How do I know when the cornbread topping is fully cooked?
The top should be golden brown and a toothpick or wooden pick inserted in the center should come out clean without wet batter. This usually takes around 20 to 25 minutes in the oven.
Final Thoughts
This Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe is genuinely one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple to prepare but packed with flavors that satisfy any comfort food craving. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or making a cozy solo dinner, it delivers every time. Give it a go—you won’t regret making this delightful casserole a part of your kitchen favorites!
Print
Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole featuring a savory ground beef and vegetable Sloppy Joe filling topped with a golden, fluffy cornbread crust. This easy-to-make baked dish combines the classic flavors of Sloppy Joes with a delightful cornbread topping, perfect for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Sloppy Joe Mixture
- Cooking spray
- 2 pounds ground chuck
- 2 cups finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1½ cups ketchup
- 3 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Cornbread Topping
- 2 (8.5-ounce) packages corn muffin mix (such as Jiffy)
- â…” cup whole milk
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground chuck, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it is almost fully browned, about 4 minutes. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper and continue cooking until the vegetables are softened, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Make the Sloppy Joe Mixture: Stir in the tomato paste and cook while stirring constantly until it darkens slightly, about 2 minutes. Add the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Then stir in the ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the sauce thickens and bubbles, about 7 minutes. Transfer this mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Cornbread Topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together the corn muffin mix, whole milk, baking powder, and eggs until fully combined. Spoon the cornbread batter evenly over the Sloppy Joe mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your hearty Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole!
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the Sloppy Joe mixture.
- You can substitute ground chuck with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Ensure not to overmix the cornbread batter to keep the topping light and fluffy.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
